The phrase "to paint the sculpture" means to apply colors or a special coating on a statue or 3D artwork to make it more visually appealing or detailed. Full definition
His meticulously painted sculptures of vegetables and the human figure are notable because they create an uncanny illusion of reality. (artpace.org)
In 1968, he began to make relief paintings, followed by painted sculptures in wood and polyester, and later in aluminium. (artspace.com)
By the 1990s he had left painting behind for good, building elaborate painted sculptures with cones, stars, and French - curve shapes. (departures.com)